In American society alcohol is a legal drug. Nonetheless, it is a depressant and is the leading drug of abuse. Use of alcohol affects judgment and decision-making abilities, slows down the central nervous system and brain function, and reduces coordination and reflex actions.
Signs and symptoms of abuse :
- Dulled mental processes
- Lack of coordination
- Slowed reaction time
- Poor judgment
- Reduced inhibitions
Health effects :
- Decreased sexual functioning
- Liver disease
- Increased cancers of the mouth, tongue, pharynx, esophagus, rectum, breast and skin
- Kidney disease
- Ulcers
- Spontaneous abortion
- Birth defects – leading cause of preventable retardation
Workplace issues :
- Many employers now test for the presence of alcohol along with other drug testing.
- Consuming alcohol increases the likelihood that a driver or equipment operator will be involved in an accident.
- Low doses of alcohol reduce inhibitions and affect decision making.
- People who would not ordinarily behave in inappropriate ways can be persuaded to change their behavior when they are drinking.
- Often employees are under the influence of alcohol when they make the decision to use drugs.
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